Solar energy systems are any solar collector, solar energy device, or structural design whose primary purpose is to provide for the collection, storage, and distribution of solar energy for space heating, electric generation, or water heating. Before installing a solar system or facility, you must submit a completed permit application along with all required documentation as outlined.
Going solar just got a whole lot easier for eligible homeowners in Oakland!
The City of Oakland is pleased to announce the launch of SolarAPP+ — a new online portal allowing most residential solar projects to obtain same-day permits, cutting approval time by an average of 5 days.
See Permit Requirements and Application Steps below!
Before you Start
Please review the Permit Requirements and Application Steps below as these vary from project to project.
Ready to get started? First, make sure you are registered and activated at our Online Permit Center. For instructions, please visit our Planning & Building Video Tutorials webpage.
At this time, Solar APP+ is designed to provide an automated code-compliance check for most residential, roof-mounted, retrofit photovoltaic systems.
To see if your system is eligible, please refer to the SolarAPP+ Eligibility Checklist. Only projects that conform to this list are eligible to use the automated SolarAPP+ portal for instant permitting. See below for SolarAPP+ FAQs.
Current system and applicant requirements:
SolarAPP+ FAQs and Tutorials:
Details about the SolarApp are available in a YouTube instructional video.
NOT ELIGIBLE for SolarAPP+? No worries! Follow these steps:
Be prepared to provide the following:
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Call (510) 238-3891 or find quick answers through our Permit & Services Questions Portal. You may also schedule an appointment with Permit Counter staff during open hours.
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Oakland City Hall
1 Frank H. Ogawa Plaza
Oakland, CA 94612
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